What Most People Don’t Know About Health Imaging Exams

Millions of radiology exams are performed in the US every year, each telling a unique and important story. From simple x-rays to complex nuclear medicine studies, radiology plays a critical role in diagnosing diseases and disorders, planning effective therapy, and even replacing open surgery with safer, less invasive treatment.

The right care begins with an accurate and timely diagnosis, so choosing the right radiology practice can make all the difference in treatment, safety, recovery and comfort. One of the biggest misconceptions about imaging tests is that you, the patient, have no choice of radiology providers to perform your exam. We are pleased to report that you have far more input regarding this essential step in your treatment than you may realize.

You Can Pick a Preferred Radiology Provider
Whether you need a routine screening, such as a mammogram, or a clinician-referred diagnostic exam, such as an x-ray, ultrasound, MRI or other test, you don’t have to go to the hospital or radiology practice associated with your preferred provider organization (PPO) or the one named on your doctor’s exam order. Just like a prescription for eyeglasses, you can use your exam order at the radiology practice of your choice. If you’re someone who is likely to avoid scheduling an exam for yourself, you may find it suitable to accept the radiology provider you’re assigned.
However, choosing an independent radiology practice can increase the likelihood that you are seen sooner, and that you will benefit from the latest technologies, as well as an experienced radiologist who subspecializes in the imaging technology and/or medical issue specific to your case. Choosing a radiology provider based on your own personal or family medical history and individual priorities gives you greater control over the quality of your care. After all, waiting a long time to have a medical exam can be pretty unnerving, and not knowing if the radiologist interpreting your results specializes in the areas related to your case can make you feel downright vulnerable.

No step in your care is more important than discovering exactly what the problem is – or isn’t. Getting the right answers as quickly as possible promotes the best possible experience and outcome.

Go With a Team That Cares About You
Your history, your hopes – your story – are as individual as you are, and deserve to be heard and understood as part of your comprehensive, high-quality healthcare. At RAO, we make it our mission to get to know you personally so we can customize your care based on more than just figures on a chart. Your family tree, experiences, lifestyle and other factors can play a significant role in everything from effective preventive care to solving medical mysteries to designing the safest, most effective treatment for disease and dysfunction.

Compare RAO to other centers in the region and you’ll find we excel in a number of important areas, including:

Experience – Locally owned and operated, RAO has been providing exceptional medical imaging services to Marion County for nearly 50 years. Our expansive team of board-certified radiologists, many of whom are fellowship-trained in subspecialties such as diagnostic radiology, musculoskeletal imaging, breast imaging, neuroradiology, vascular and interventional radiology, and other leading-edge diagnostic and therapeutic modalities, is proud to be the exclusive provider to many local medical centers, including AdventHealth Ocala, Ocala Regional Medical Center, West Marion Community Hospital and Bayfront Health Seven Rivers in Citrus County.

Technology – We remain ahead of the curve by continually researching and adopting the latest and most sophisticated imaging technologies, including the region’s most advanced PET/CT, a range of MRI options, ultrasound, fluoroscopy, minimally-invasive interventional treatments, and 3D mammography and other breast health services so revolutionary they have earned our centers “Breast Imaging Center of Excellence” designations from the American College of Radiology.

Ease – RAO’s team of dedicated, highly-trained professionals is at your service. Your scheduler will work to provide the quickest, easiest appointment for you. They will carefully explain what to expect during your visit and how to prepare, and provide attentive and courteous assistance. No need to transfer to other departments or speak to multiple people, even if you need more than one service – your scheduler will handle it all.

Service – RAO is committed to providing you with incomparable consideration from start to finish. A friendly, experienced service professional will call you to confirm your appointment, answer any questions you may have, explain your insurance coverage and out-of-pocket costs (if any). Every location offers plenty of free on-site parking for a stress-free experience. When you arrive for your appointment, our receptionist will check you in and direct you to our comfortable and spacious waiting area.

When it’s time for your exam, you will be greeted by your friendly radiology technologist, who will perform your scan. RAO’s experienced technologists are highly-
trained in their respective imaging procedures, as well as in imaging accuracy, patient comfort and utmost safety. Your technologist will explain your test in depth, address any questions, and ensure that you’re comfortable. They will take extreme care to make sure that your experience is as easy, pleasant and quick as possible.

Your imaging studies are then directed to the appropriate radiologist. When applicable, your radiologist will subspecialize in the service or technology you received, such as diagnostic radiology, breast imaging, neuroradiology or musculoskeletal MRI, just to name a few, for fast, accurate answers. Our radiologists live and work locally, so there are never any time-zone conflicts to delay getting your results to your referring clinician. Our doctors read all images personally for ultimate quality and rapid turnaround, and provide expert consultation with your healthcare team whenever needed.

Efficiency – Most people are surprised to discover they can receive faster scheduling, next-generation imaging technologies, caring, personal service, and quicker reporting to their physicians, with less out-of-pocket expense and reduced costs to insurance by choosing to go to a freestanding outpatient imaging facility. Now, that’s a win for everyone.

If you’re due for a routine screening, or you and your doctor want quick, accurate answers for a medical problem, RAO is ready to apply our decades of experience and compassion to the task, right here in your neighborhood.

Behind every scan is a story, and RAO is here to help you create the best possible conclusion to this pivotal chapter.

Radiology Associates of Ocala
RAOcala.com

352-671-4300